Strengths:
35 Degree Incline Ramp For More Effective Workouts - Incline or ramp (not the same as resistance) increases the workout slope of the elliptical path. This helps you burn more calories and target different muscle groups.
The Pathfinder elliptical comes with Power Incline - which means you don't have to get off the machine to adjust the incline manually. You just press a button while working out and the elliptical adjusts to your chosen incline.
Folds Up To Save Space- While many treadmills fold up, there are very few elliptical trainers that fold (and still feel stable). If you don't have a lot of room to workout, the Pathfinder comes in handy since you can just fold it up and away when done.
iFit Live - iFit Live is the newest technology that Nordic Track is putting on a few of their newer models.
If you have wireless Internet in your home you can connect your elliptical to the Internet. It's powered by Googlemaps and Google terrain so that you can see different trails all over the world as you workout.
You can customize and download your own workout programs and workout with Jillian Michaels from 'The Biggest Loser' - where she coaches you through your workout.
You can also compete against your Facebook friends, track your activity and nutrition online and even download workout videos.
18" - 20" Adjustable Stride - Many cheaper ellipticals come with a short 14 - 16" strider. A longer stride can help you more fully work your leg muscles and get a more comfortable (and effective) workout.
iPod Port With Built In Sound System - You can plug your iPod or MP3 player into the console audio jack and listen to your favorite music through the speakers built into the console. This alone can make your workouts a lot more enjoyable
20 Built In Workouts - In addition to the iFit Live workouts, the Pathfinder also comes with 10 ramp-based workouts (the elliptical automatically changes the ramp for you) and 10 resistance-based workouts (the elliptical changes the resistance for you.)
Weaknesses:
Note that the Pathfinder says it comes with an 18 - 20" stride however this stride changes only as you adjust the ramp. As you change the incline from 15 to 35 Degrees the stride length automatically adjusts from 18" - 20 (This is not the same as being able to choose your stride length throughout your workout).
Summary: Recommended
The Nordic Track Pathfinder elliptical is one of Nordictrack's most popular ellipticals under $1000. And they've packed a lot of value into that price.
The ramp or incline can help you get a better crosstraining workout. The unique Shock System creates an elliptical path unique to you. And the ability to fold it up helps you save space.
You can listen to your favorite tunes with the iPod port and speakers. And no other brand can touch the iFit LIVE capabilities.
While it's not a commercial machine, it gives excellent value for under $1000.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the NordicTrack Pathfinder elliptical direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently throwing in Free Shipping which will also save you about $150.
If you have wireless internet in your home, you can use this to connect your elliptical to the internet, and experience trails all over the world as if you were outside with Google Maps. You can also download new Jillian Michaels workouts and track your workout results.
Other highlights include up to 35 degree incline (which can help you work different muscles and get a more effective workout), iPod port with speakers and Shock System which creates a dynamic elliptical path, unique to you.
So is it the right buy for you? Here's a review of the Nordic Track Pathfinder elliptical to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $799 (Sale + Free Shipping)
Stride Length: 18" to 20"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 15
Built In Workout Programs: 20
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Folding
iPod Port With Speakers
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, 1 year on Parts & Labor
